Authorities say returning Guyanese providing wrong information on arrival      

Over 600 Guyanese who were stuck overseas due to COVID-19 have returned home but the Ministry of Public Health says some of them are not in compliance with the mandatory seven-day home quarantine.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Shamdeo Persaud Wednesday said the nationals are providing wrong information to health officials on arrival.

Dr Persaud is encouraging that the nationals desist from deliberately defying the repatriation measures which will essentially make it possible for others to return home.

“It is disappointing to learn that when health officials try to follow up with you, either you are not at home or they are unable to contact you because the information you provided is inaccurate and you are not at the stipulated location,” Dr Persaud said.

Dr Persaud stated it is irresponsible and selfish for the nationals to be putting their life and the lives of other citizens at risk. Additionally, it is also placing unnecessary pressure on health workers and the health system.

“I, therefore, wish to remind you that the stipulated quarantine that you signed on to, in your effort to return home is important and is for your protection.

“Arriving with a negative PCR test does not prevent you from contracting COVID-19, while travelling or on arrival in Guyana; remember you are still at risk hence the reason we want to check on you to ensure that you are not experiencing any signs or symptoms,” Dr Persaud said.

The National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) on Tuesday announced two more repatriation flights for Guyanese nationals stranded in the United States.

A flight from Miami to Guyana is scheduled for July 1 with Eastern Airlines leaving at 08:30h. Another flight from New York is also scheduled with Eastern Airlines for July 2, departing also at 08:30h.

The Task Force said additional flights are being planned in consultation with various airlines and the details will be provided as these are confirmed. The additional flights will cater to Guyanese stranded in North America and the Caribbean.

All returning Guyanese are responsible for their own airfare and other expenses and must complete PCR COVID-19 testing and test negative for consideration in addition to filling out and submitting the Repatriation Form.

Upon return to Guyana, all citizens must self-quarantine for a period of seven days. Officials from the Ministry of Public Health will monitor all persons on self-quarantine.